Revamp Your Window Covering
Design Guide Expert Liz Cody Williams, Tontine, Inc
Spaces for the Soul
Dallas Texas - As the design expert at Tontine, Inc., Liz Cody Williams knows that home is where the heart is, which is evident, she examines, in the steady flow of design-savvy clients who are looking to revamp, refurbish and remodel their existing abodes. “Even with the economy this past year, people aren't necessarily looking for the least expensive route but rather, they want to make sure that they are spending their money wisely. They want good quality at a fair price,’ Williams explains, ‘and they seem to really appreciate their home and want to create a special place for their family and friends. With a limitless variety of desires and needs—“everything from new Dallas window coverings to adding new accessories, updating furniture and even kitchen and bathroom remodels”—as homeowners are developing a renewed sense of pride in their homes.
Recently, Williams has had green, organic, and eco-friendly materials, furniture, and fabrics on her radar as one of the industry’s leading trends. “In fact,’ she says, ‘I don’t believe we can call it a trend, but a new way of life that is catching on in every area.” Williams, who handles low V.O.C. paints, certified green and energy efficient window coverings and treatments, and fabrics made from organic fibers, believes the continuation of the ‘green’ movement is in full force and will only prove more critical and relevant in the future.
When looking towards the future, Williams expects to see an overhaul of kitchen and bathroom redesigns with a few interesting and unexpected additions to accommodate the growing admiration of personalized, luxury living in a family-friendly atmosphere. Natural stone, she says, is popular in bathroom
reconstruction, when accented with glass tiles and bold or neutral colors. Also, the idea of creating a spa-like retreat is growing in popularity—master baths complete with ample showers including multiple shower heads, air jet tubs, and chromatherapy features, a therapeutic method that uses light and color to promote relaxation. As for kitchen and living areas, Williams is seeing an influx of clients who are removing barrier walls and expanding and combining the two areas into one common space. Williams also suggests blending contrasting colors, textures and surfaces for a distinctly customized look. “I am seeing different colors on cabinets and different countertop surfaces within the same kitchen. For example the island can be painted an accent color or the cabinets on either side of the cook top can be stained instead of painted. The counter tops may be granite and the island countertop a very functional butcher block. The possibilities are endless,” she says.
“Everything is about improving the quality of life. I believe that if we live in a healthy environment that is also aesthetically pleasing and functional, we can create a foundation to enjoy our lives and families,” says Williams. Applying creative freedom and discovering elements of style that appeal to the eye and the soul has become increasingly valuable, as it makes each project unique and gives the designer and homeowner even more reason to take pleasure in a space.